Spring
Spring is an ideal time for planting in almost all areas of the country, as
warming temperatures and regular rainfall makes conditions ideal for plant
establishment. Make sure you wait until the threat of frost is over before
planting. Spring is a good time to make sure your irrigation or sprinkler
system is in good working condition, and that your lawn tools and equipment are
ready for the upcoming busy season. And remember, any season is the right time
to make sure your shrubs and trees are properly mulched in order to moderate
temperatures, maintain soil moisture, deter weeds, and enhance the
attractiveness of your yard. However, avoid mulching directly around the trunks
of trees and ornamental plants, as this can lead to rot.
Summer
In most parts of the country, summer means watering. To provide your landscape
and lawn with the correct amount of water, learn about the specific needs for
your lawn, trees, shrubs, and ornamental plants. This is important to avoid
drought stress, but also to avoid over-watering, which can be as detrimental as
drought. And remember, any season is the right time to make sure your shrubs
and trees are properly mulched in order to moderate temperatures, maintain soil
moisture, deter weeds, and enhance the attractiveness of your yard. However,
avoid mulching directly around the trunks of trees and ornamental plants, as
this can lead to rot.
Fall
Fall is also an excellent time to plant in many parts of the country. If you do
plant, make sure you water new plantings well if rainfall is scarce. Also, take
care to sufficiently water your lawn as it prepares for its dormancy. Don't
forget to plant bulbs in the fall, including tulips, daffodils, and hyacinth,
for a bright, beautiful spring display. And remember, any season is the right
time to make sure your shrubs and trees are properly mulched in order to
moderate temperatures, maintain soil moisture, deter weeds, and enhance the
attractiveness of your yard. However, avoid mulching directly around the trunks
of trees and ornamental plants, as this can lead to rot.
Winter
Winter is an excellent time to prune trees and shrubs in most parts of the
country. Many plants have lost their leaves, making it easier to see their
framework and decide which branches to remove. However, do not prune plants
that bloom in the spring, as you could remove next spring's flowers. Prune
these plants after the blooms fall off in the spring. In most parts of the
country, you might need to water your lawn, even during dormancy, if it doesn't
rain for three to four weeks. Winter is also a good time to mulch your trees
and ornamental plants to help moderate temperatures and soil moisture. This
time of year is ideal to get lawn equipment repaired and ready for spring, and
many repair shops might even offer winter discounts during what is typically a
slow time of the year for them.
Additional Information
Seasonal Insights - California - Spring
Seasonal Insights - Southeast - Spring
Seasonal Insights - Southwest - Spring
Seasonal Insights - Midwest - Winter
Seasonal Insights - Northeast - Winter
